In an attempt to reassure Israeli concerns amid rising diplomatic unease, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee pushed back against claims that President Donald Trump’s upcoming Middle East trip — which notably skips Israel — signals a snub.

The former Arkansas governor, speaking to Israel’s Channel 12, acknowledged that Trump’s first regional tour as president-elect includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, but not Jerusalem — a move that’s raised eyebrows across the Israeli political spectrum.

“His first trip is about economic opportunity. That’s where his focus is,” Huckabee explained. “It’s not about leaving Israel out. He’s spent more time with the Israeli prime minister than with any other leader. That should tell you everything you need to know.”

Still, the decision comes at a time when U.S.-Israel ties appear more complex than in years past. While Trump once branded himself the most pro-Israel president in history, his recent diplomatic maneuvers — including a pivot toward Gulf partnerships and renewed nuclear talks with Iran — have sparked worry over shifting priorities.

“People need to relax,” Huckabee insisted. “Donald Trump loves you. There’s no doubt about that. He’s got your back.”

The ambassador also weighed in on the contentious issue of Israeli sovereignty in dealing with Iran. When asked whether Trump would back an Israeli strike on Iran in the event of a U.S.-Iran deal, Huckabee said, “Israel has the right to do what it has to do.” He added that while the Trump administration would have “recommendations,” Israel would act according to its own security needs, as it always has.

As for reports of a cooling relationship between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Huckabee dismissed them outright. “That’s a very unfair characterization,” he said. “They’ve spent a lot of time together recently. It’s warm, it’s personal, and it’s cordial.”

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